The battle of the youngsters decided the BOP div two game between Kawerau and Gary Fowell Builders Plains Rangers on Saturday.
Rangers played the home team Kawerau on their huge new pitch at Tarawera Park. The maximum size 120 metres long pitch tested the fitness of both teams. Kawerau fielded a very young team, while Rangers had its usual blend of youth and experience. Rangers settled quickly. Composed play from the defence and good work from their midfield soon had their young strikers Ben McPherson and Jono Whitaker asking questions of the home team. A great run from McPherson opened them up midway through the first half and Whitaker was there to finish it off. Unfortunately he went off injured shortly after, as did captain Richie Nillesen.
In the second half Rangers maintained their grip on the game. Fourteen year old substitute Matt Bateson had a dream first game in senior football, looping a shot over the Kawerau keeper to give the visitors a two goal advantage. Rangers threatened several more times and solid defence, led by player of the day Aaron Muggeridge, kept the Kawerau team out. The final score Kawerau 0, Plains Rangers 2.
Rangers will have a huge test this coming Saturday, with the visit of last year's champions AFC Fury, who have already racked up 16 goals in their two games so far this season! Kick-off at the Edgecumbe Domain is at 2 pm.